Our Lifeguards

by Gretell de Gala

Godofredo (Godo) Vásquez.Photo: Ernesto J. Torres, Casa 12

Godofredo Vásquez Bohórquez (Godo) is Puerto’s
best known lifeguard and the chief of the Heroico Cuerpo
de Salvavidas. As to be expected, he is an expert surfer, having
been introduced to the waves at age seven. During his 18 years
protecting our beaches, he
worked with a group of what
had been volunteers and
helped create a professional
team that now is part of the Fire Department.

Twice a year, in March
and December, Godo and his
crew of nine lifeguards participate
in a refresher course
to prepare for Puerto’s two
high seasons. Besides physical
training, they also practice
CPR and other life saving
techniques, as well as ocean
rescues. Contrary to popular
belief, lifeguards are not
trained in first aid. What they
do is prepare the drowning
victims for the paramedics.

Zicatela, of course, with
its big waves and treachorous
currents, is Puerto’s most dangerous
beach. But, incredible
as it sounds, the Bahía Principal
is the second most dangerous
and not just because
of the deep drop near the
pier. The problem is with people
going into the water after
a few drinks or fully dressed
in water-logged clothes. Beyond
that, a lot of the bathers
do not know how to swim.

Last year, the lifeguards
rescued 400 people and attended
to two drowning
victims. Godo stresses that
when you go on vacation you
should ask the local people where it’s safe to swim. Don’t just trust
your eyes or last year’s experience.

The main lifeguard station is in the middle of Zicatela across the
street from the Hotel Ines. Besides Zicatela, there are towers on the
beaches of Bacocho, Carrizalillo, Marinero and La Punta. The towers
are staffed from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. However, there is always someone
at the Zicatela station to provide emergency assistance.